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When I was just 10, I read about a article in my hometown newspaper about the World Air Guitar Competition, that happens every year in my native city of Oulu, Finland. Mom and Dad had helped out at the inaugural contest starting from 1996 – my mum handed out flyers, my dad managed the music. Ever since, domestic competitions have been staged all across the world, with the winners converging in Oulu each August.

At the time, I inquired with my family if I could enter. Initially they had doubts; the event was in a bar, and there would be an older crowd. They thought it might be an intimidating atmosphere, but I was resolved.

In my youth, I was always “playing” air guitar, acting out to the most popular rock tunes with my make-believe instrument. Mom and Dad were lovers of music – my dad loved The Boss and the Irish rock band. AC/DC was the original act I found independently. Angus Young, the frontman guitarist, was my inspiration.

Upon entering the spotlight, I played my set to AC/DC’s the song Whole Lotta Rosie. The audience started shouting “Angus”, similar to the concert version, and it dawned on me: this must be to be a rock star. I made it to the finals, performing to crowds in Oulu’s market square, and I was captivated. I was dubbed “Little Angus” that day.

After that I stopped. I was a judge one year, and kicked off the show once more, but I stayed out of the contest. I went back at 18, tested out several stage names, but everyone still referred to me as “Little Angus” so I embraced it and choose “The Angus” as my stage name. I’ve made it to the final each competition since then, and in 2023 I placed second, so I was set to win this year.

Our global network is like a family. Our guiding principle is ‘Play air guitar, avoid battles’. It may seem funny, but it’s a real philosophy.

The event is competitive but uplifting. Participants have 60 seconds to put their all – explosive energy, precise mimicry, performance charm – on an imaginary instrument. Adjudicators evaluate you on a grading system from 4.0 to 6.0. In the case of a tie, there’s an “showdown” between the last two competitors: a track is selected and you freestyle.

Preparation is everything. I chose an the band Avenged Sevenfold song for my performance. I listened to it on a loop for a long time. I did regular stretches, trying to get my lower body flexible enough to bound, my fingers fast enough to imitate guitar parts and my upper body set for those moves and leaps. By the time competition day arrived, I could sense the music in my soul.

Once all acts were done, the scores came in, and I had matched with the Japanese champion, the Japanese titleholder – it was occasion for an air-off. We competed directly to the Guns N’ Roses hit by the iconic band. When I heard the song, I felt comforted because it was one that I knew, and more than anything I was so thrilled to have another go. When they announced I’d triumphed, the venue went wild.

It's all a bit fuzzy. I think I lost consciousness from surprise. Then everyone started chanting the classic tune that well-known track and hoisted me on to their backs. One of the greats – AKA his stage name – a previous titleholder and one of my dear companions, was embracing me. I cried. I was the inaugural from Finland air guitar global winner in 25 years. The previous Finnish champion, Markus “Black Raven” Vainionpää, was also present. He bestowed upon me the biggest hug and said it was “long overdue”.

The air guitar community is like a close-knit group. Our guiding saying is “Make air, not war”. It may seem humorous, but it’s a real philosophy. Competitors come from all over the world, and all involved is supportive and encouraging. Before you go on stage, all participants shows support. Then for one minute you’re free to be uninhibited, humorous, the biggest rock star in the world.

Additionally, I am a percussionist and guitarist in a band with my sibling called the band name, inspired by the football manager, as we’re inspired by British music genres. I’ve been bartending for a couple of years, and I produce mini movies and music videos. The victory hasn’t affected my daily activities too much but I’ve been doing a extensive media, and I aspire it brings more artistic projects. My hometown will be a designated cultural center next year, so there are great prospects.

For now, I’m just appreciative: for the network, for the ability to compete, and for that young child who read an article and thought, “I'd love to try that.”